Wannon Water Managing Director reappointed

23 December 2019

Wannon Water’s Managing Director Andrew Jeffers has been reappointed for another five years.

Board Chair Jacinta Ermacora said Mr Jeffers had proved himself as a strong leader who is highly respected by employees, within the industry and by regional partners.

“The reappointment locks in a high performing MD and sets the direction for Wannon Water for the next five years,” Ms Ermacora said.

“Andrew is a powerful advocate for Wannon Water’s strategic direction of going beyond water for strong communities. He puts people at the centre of his decision-making and is committed to ensuring our customers receive great value for their investment in water and sewerage services.”

Ms Ermacora said Mr Jeffers’ commitment to inclusion and diversity ensured Wannon Water was setting an example for the south-west. “Supporting and empowering women to become more confident and connected is something Andrew is particularly passionate about and invested in.

“His achievements mean Wannon Water is leading the way for future generations and setting a positive example, demonstrating they should not have to face limited opportunities in their own lives.”

Mr Jeffers began his tenure as Managing Director in 2015. He has more than 25 years’ experience in the water industry, including senior management roles at Wannon Water covering retail and corporate services, service delivery and strategy and innovation.

Achievements under Mr Jeffers’ stewardship include:

  • Reduced prices, with average household bills dropping by 11 per cent (before inflation) over the past six years, with the average household bill declining by more than $100 over that period. Wannon Water has a great track record in delivering efficiencies without any reduction in customer service levels.
  • An annual survey showing 92 per cent of customers are satisfied with Wannon Water overall – a significant increase on previous years.
  • The announcement of Wannon Water’s biggest-ever project, a $40 million upgrade of the Warrnambool Sewage Treatment Plant. The project includes substantial upgrades to the influent, effluent and septage screening systems at the plant.
  • A pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40 per cent by the year 2025 and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. A key initiative was the construction of a $4.2 million wind turbine at Portland’s Sewage Treatment Plant, making Wannon Water the first water corporation in Australia to own and operate a wind turbine of this scale. It is also the first wind turbine 100 per cent owned and operated by a Victorian Government entity in more than 30 years.
  • The role of water and waste services is central to the region’s economy. Wannon Water has developed important and valued relationships with key stakeholders and partners to position our region as a great place to live, work and invest.

Ms Ermacora said the decision to reappoint Mr Jeffers was unanimously endorsed by the Board.

“Andrew has led Wannon Water exceptionally well and will continue to do so. We are confident that under his leadership, we are well positioned to continue to deliver strong outcomes for our customers and communities well into the future.”